Bicycle suspension components

ABSTRACT

Example bicycle suspension components are described herein. An example suspension component includes a spring and a damper configured in a telescoping arrangement. The shock absorber has a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The second end has an eyelet. The example suspension component also includes a shock end mount coupled to the first end of the shock absorber. The shock end mount includes a frame bracket. The frame bracket includes a first frame attachment portion to be coupled to a frame of the bicycle. The eyelet on the second end of the shock absorber defines a second frame attachment portion to be coupled to the frame of the bicycle. The shock end mount includes an elastomeric member to enable relative movement between the shock absorber and the first frame attachment portion. The elastomeric member is disposed outside of a region between the first frame attachment portion and the second frame attachment portion.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates generally to bicycle components and, morespecifically, to bicycle suspension components.

BACKGROUND

Bicycles are known to have suspension components. Suspension componentsare used for various applications, such as cushioning impacts,vibrations, or other disturbances experienced by the bicycle during useas well as maintaining ground contact for traction. A common applicationfor suspension components on bicycles is for cushioning impacts orvibrations experienced by the rider when the bicycle is ridden overbumps, ruts, rocks, pot holes, and/or other obstacles. These suspensioncomponents include rear and/or front wheel suspension components.Suspension components may also be used in other locations, such as aseat post or handlebar, to insulate the rider from impacts.

SUMMARY

An example suspension component for a bicycle disclosed herein includesa shock absorber including a spring and a damper configured in atelescoping arrangement. The shock absorber has a first end and a secondend opposite the first end. The second end has an eyelet. The examplesuspension component also includes a shock end mount coupled to thefirst end of the shock absorber. The shock end mount includes a framebracket. The frame bracket includes a first frame attachment portion tobe coupled to a frame of the bicycle. The eyelet on the second end ofthe shock absorber defines a second frame attachment portion to becoupled to the frame of the bicycle. The shock end mount includes anelastomeric member to enable relative movement between the shockabsorber and the first frame attachment portion. The elastomeric memberis disposed outside of a region between the first frame attachmentportion and the second frame attachment portion.

Another example suspension component for a bicycle disclosed hereinincludes a shock absorber including a spring and a damper configured ina telescoping arrangement. The shock absorber has a first end and asecond end opposite the first end. The example suspension componentincludes a first shock end mount coupled to the first end of the shockabsorber. The first shock end mount includes a first frame attachmentportion to be coupled to a frame of the bicycle. The first shock endmount includes a first cushioning member to enable relative movementbetween the first end of the shock absorber and the first frameattachment portion. The example suspension component also includes asecond shock end mount coupled to the second end of the shock absorber.The second shock end mount includes a second frame attachment portion tobe coupled to the frame for the bicycle. The second shock end mountincludes a second cushioning member to enable relative movement betweenthe second end of the shock absorber and the second frame attachmentportion. The first cushioning member and the second cushioning memberare disposed outside of a region between the first frame attachmentportion and the second frame attachment portion.

A shock end mount to couple a shock absorber to a frame of a bicycle isdisclosed herein. The example shock end mount includes a frame bracketincluding a threaded opening to receive a threaded fastener to couplethe frame bracket to the frame of the bicycle. The frame bracket has awall with an opening. The example shock end mount includes a postbracket to be coupled to the shock absorber. The post bracket includinga base, a post extending from the base, and a cap coupled to a distalend of the cap. The post extends through the wall of the frame bracket.The post and the opening in the wall have a rectangular cross-section tolimit rotation between the frame bracket and the post bracket. Theexample shock end mount also includes a first elastomeric memberdisposed between the base and the wall, and a second elastomeric memberdisposed between the cap and the wall. The first and second elastomericmembers enable relative movement between the frame bracket and the shockabsorber.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of an example bicycle that may employ any of theexample components disclosed herein.

FIG. 2 is perspective view of an example suspension component that canbe implemented on the example bicycle of FIG. 1 . In FIG. 2 , theexample suspension component includes an example shock absorber and anexample shock end mount coupled to a first end of the example shockabsorber.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the example suspension component of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 4 is a side view of the example suspension component of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the example shock end mount of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 6 is an enlarged side view of the example shock end mount and theexample shock absorber of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the example shock end mount takenalong line B-B of FIG. 6 .

FIG. 8 shows the example shock end mount of FIG. 7 in response to acompressive force.

FIG. 9 shows the example shock end mount of FIG. 7 in response to arebound or extensive force.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the example shock end mount takenalong line C-C of FIG. 6 .

FIG. 11 is perspective view of another example suspension component thatcan be implemented on the example bicycle of FIG. 1 . In FIG. 17 , theexample suspension component includes the example shock absorber of FIG.2 and an example shock end mount coupled to a second end of the exampleshock absorber.

FIG. 12 is a side view of the example suspension component of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 13 is a side view of the example suspension component of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 14 is an exploded view of the example shock end mount of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 15 is an enlarged side view of the example shock end mount and theexample shock absorber of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the example shock end mount takenalong line D-D of FIG. 15 .

FIG. 17 is a side view of another example suspension component that canbe implemented on the example bicycle of FIG. 1 . In FIG. 11 , theexample suspension component includes the example shock absorber of FIG.2 with example shock end mounts coupled to both ends of the exampleshock absorber.

FIG. 18 is an exploded view of an example shock end mount having a postbracket integral with an end of the example shock absorber of FIG. 2 .

FIGS. 19A-19D are schematics of an example shock absorber and an exampleshock end mount on a first end of the example shock absorber indifferent states.

FIGS. 20A-20D are schematics of an example shock absorber and an exampleshock end mount on a second end of the example shock absorber indifferent states.

FIGS. 21A-21D are schematics of an example shock absorber and exampleframe springs mounts on both ends of the example shock absorber indifferent states.

The figures are not to scale. Instead, the thickness of the layers orregions may be enlarged in the drawings. In general, the same referencenumbers will be used throughout the drawing(s) and accompanying writtendescription to refer to the same or like parts.

Descriptors “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. are used herein whenidentifying multiple elements or components that may be referred toseparately. Unless otherwise specified or understood based on theircontext of use, such descriptors are not intended to impute any meaningof priority or ordering in time but merely as labels for referring tomultiple elements or components separately for ease of understanding thedisclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptor “first” may be usedto refer to an element in the detailed description, while the sameelement may be referred to in a claim with a different descriptor suchas “second” or “third.” In such instances, it should be understood thatsuch descriptors are used merely for ease of referencing multipleelements or components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Disclosed herein are example suspension components that can beimplemented on a vehicle, such as a bicycle. An example suspensioncomponent disclosed herein includes a shock absorber. The shock absorberincludes a spring and a damper configured in a telescoping arrangement.Known shock absorbers include frame attachment portions, such aseyelets, on opposite ends of the shock absorber. The shock absorber canbe coupled between two sections of the frame of the bicycle via theeyelets. In particular, the bicycle has two shock attachment portions(sometimes referred to as mounting points) where the shock absorber canbe coupled between. For example, the shock absorber may have a firsteyelet (a first frame attachment portion) on a first end of the shockabsorber that can be coupled to a rocker (a first shock attachmentportion) that is moved by the rear wheel, and the shock absorber mayhave a second eyelet (a second frame attachment portion) on a second endof the shock absorber that can be coupled to another section of theframe (a second shock attachment portion), such as the down tube of theframe. Shock absorbers configured to be attached to a bicycle frame in amanner that primarily reacts to movement of a bicycle rear wheel areconsidered rear shock absorbers. Shock absorbers are typically sized touse the maximum space available between the shock attachment portions,so as to improve performance and reduce the possibility of top-out. Theshock absorber compresses and expands (rebounds) to dampen and absorbvibrations and impacts of the rear wheel, which reduces these shocks andvibrations transmitted through the frame to the rider. Shock absorbersrequire a certain breakaway force before the two ends of the shockabsorber begin to move relative to each other. In particular, the damperand spring may include pistons with seals that require a certain amountof force to overcome the static friction before the two ends of theshock absorber can move relative to each other. Further, every time thedirection of movement changes (e.g., expansion to compression), thisstatic friction needs to be overcome. As such, there is a slight delaywhile the force builds up before the two sections of the frame begin tomove. Further, high frequency (e.g., frequencies above 5 hertz (Hz)),lower amplitude vibrations, such as those caused by a washboard terrain,are typically not absorbed by the shock absorber. Instead, these highfrequency vibrations are transmitted through the frame and, thus, can befelt by the rider.

Disclosed herein are example shock end mounts and example suspensioncomponents including the example shock end mounts that address theabove-noted drawbacks. An example shock end mount disclosed herein canbe used to couple an end of a shock absorber to a shock attachmentportion (sometimes referred to as a mounting point) on the bicycle.Therefore, the shock end mount forms an interface between the end of theshock absorber and the shock attachment portion on the bicycle. In someexamples, the shock end mount is used to couple a first end of the shockabsorber to a first shock attachment portion on the bicycle (e.g., arocker), while the second (opposite) end of the shock absorber iscoupled directly to the second shock attachment portion on the bicycle(e.g., the down tube). For example, the shock end mount includes ordefines a first frame attachment portion. The frame attachment portionis the point, location, and/or structure where the shock end mount iscoupled to the first shock attachment portion on the frame of thebicycle. The first frame attachment portion may be, for example, one ormore threaded openings or bores that receive threaded fasteners (e.g.,bolts). The second end of the shock absorber may include an eyelet thatdefines a second frame attachment portion that is coupled to the secondshock attachment portion on the frame of the bicycle.

The example shock end mount is configured to improve shock absorptionand absorb high frequency and/or low magnitude vibrations. Inparticular, the example shock end mount includes one or more cushioningmembers that enable relative movement between the frame attachmentportion and the first end of the shock absorber. As such, the exampleshock end mount enables relative movement between the two sections ofthe frame without having to overcome the friction in the seals of thedamper and spring components. In some examples, the cushioning membersare implemented as elastomeric members (e.g., rubber pads). In otherexamples, the cushioning members can be implemented as springs (e.g.,metallic coil springs) or other types of cushioning members. Therefore,when riding over a bump, for example, the two sections of the frame canmove relative to each other before the breakaway force of the shockabsorber is reached. As such, the shock end mount enables the twosections of the frame to more quickly absorb shocks and impulses. Lowerfrequency vibrations are partially absorbed by the shock end mount andtransmitted through the shock end mount to the shock absorber. Further,the example shock end mount also absorbs high frequency vibrations, suchas frequencies above 5 Hz, that would otherwise be transmitted tothrough the frame and felt by the rider. The example shock end mountenables the two sections of the frame to flutter, thereby reducingvibrations that are felt by the rider. Therefore, lower frequencyvibrations are partially absorbed by the shock end mount until thebreakaway force causes the shock absorber to compress or expand, whilehigh frequency vibrations are absorbed by the shock end mount. As such,the example spring mounts disclosed herein provide additionalcompression force cushioning from rolling surface impacts and vibration.Further, the example shock end mounts disclosed herein also provideextension force cushioning from a shock rebound or the suspensionvehicle rapidly leaving the ground with the weight of the unspranginertia moving away from the sprung frame. As a result, the exampleshock end mounts disclosed herein reduce shocks, impacts, and vibrationsfelt by the rider, which creates a more comfortable ride for the rider.This also increases rider confidence in the traction and grip at thewheels.

In some examples disclosed herein, the cushioning member(s) is/aredisposed outside of a region between the first frame attachment portionon the shock end mount and the second frame attachment portion on thesecond end of the shock absorber. As such, the example shock end mountand the cushioning member(s) do not interfere with or shorten theallowable size (e.g., length) of the shock absorber and/or strokedistance of the shock absorber. As such, the shock end mount enables thesame size shock absorber (with the same potential stroke distance) as ifthe shock absorber was coupled directly between the two shock attachmentportions on the bicycle. Therefore, the shock end mount does not requirea modified or shortened shock absorber. Instead, the shock end mount canbe used with common sized shock absorber.

An example shock end mount includes a frame bracket. The frame bracketdefines a first frame attachment portion that is to be coupled to theframe. For example, the frame bracket can include one or more threadedopenings to receive threaded fasteners (e.g., bolts) to couple the framebracket to the first shock attachment portion on the frame of thebicycle. The example frame bracket also includes a post bracket that iscoupled to the first end of the shock absorber. For example, the postbracket can be coupled to an eyelet on the first end of the shockabsorber. The post bracket includes a base and a post extending from thebase. The post extends through a load translating member, such as a wallof the frame bracket. A cap is coupled to a distal end of the post, suchthat the base and the cap are disposed on opposite sides of the wall ofthe frame bracket. The shock end mount includes a first elastomericmember between the base of the post bracket and the wall of the framebracket, and a second elastomeric member between the cap of the postbracket and the wall of the frame bracket. The first and secondelastomeric members compress and expand to enable the frame bracket andthe shock absorber to move relative to each other. This enables thefirst end of the shock absorber and the first frame attachment portionto move relative to each other before overcoming the friction in theshock absorber seals. For example, when a compressive force is appliedto the suspension component (e.g., the two sections of the frame aremoved toward each other), a first one of the elastomeric members iscompressed (e.g., loaded in compression), which enables the first frameattachment portion to move relative to the first end of the shockabsorber. Additionally, a second one of the elastomeric members may beexpanded or loaded in tension. Because the elastomeric members aredisposed on opposite sides of the plate, the initiating force to movethe frame bracket is zero. Lower frequency vibrations are transmittedthrough the shock end mount to the shock absorber until the breakawayforce is reached and the shock absorber compress. When the compressiveforce is removed, the elastomeric member expands to bias the framebracket (and, thus, the first frame attachment portion) to the originalposition relative to the post bracket. The opposite reaction occursduring rebound. In other words, the second elastomeric member may becompressed, and the first elastomeric member may be expanded or loadedin tension. Therefore, the shock end mount acts as a spring in serieswith the shock absorber, thereby enabling relative movement between thetwo sections of the frame of the bicycle portions independent of theshock absorber telescoping movement. The elastomeric members also absorbhigh frequency vibrations that would otherwise not be absorbed by theshock absorber.

In some examples, a second shock end mount can be coupled to the secondend of the shock absorber and used to couple the second end of the shockabsorber to the second shock attachment portion on the bicycle.Therefore, shock end mounts can be used on both ends of the shockabsorber. The second spring frame mount functions in a similar manner toenable relative movement between the second end of the shock absorberand the second frame attachment portion and, thus, enable relativemovement between the two sections of the frame independent of the shockabsorber telescoping movement.

Turning now to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates one example of a humanpowered vehicle on which the example suspension components disclosedherein may be implemented. In this example, the vehicle is one possibletype of bicycle 100, such as a mountain bicycle. In the illustratedexample, the bicycle 100 includes a frame 102 and a front wheel 104 anda rear wheel 106 rotatably coupled to the frame 102. In the illustratedexample, the front wheel 104 is coupled to the front end of the frame102 via a front fork 108. A front and/or forward riding direction ororientation of the bicycle 100 is indicated by the direction of thearrow A in FIG. 1 . As such, a forward direction of movement for thebicycle 100 is indicated by the direction of arrow A.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 1 , the bicycle 100 includes a seat110 coupled to the frame 102 (e.g., near the rear end of the frame 102relative to the forward direction A) via a seat post 112. The bicycle100 also includes handlebars 114 coupled to the frame 102 and the frontfork 108 (e.g., near a forward end of the frame 102 relative to theforward direction A) for steering the bicycle 100. The bicycle 100 isshown on a riding surface 116. The riding surface 116 may be any ridingsurface such as the ground (e.g., a dirt path, a sidewalk, a street,etc.), a man-made structure above the ground (e.g., a wooden ramp),and/or any other surface.

In the illustrated example, the bicycle 100 has a drivetrain 118 thatincludes a crank assembly 120. The crank assembly 120 is operativelycoupled via a chain 122 to a sprocket assembly 124 mounted to a hub 126of the rear wheel 106. The crank assembly 120 includes at least one, andtypically two, crank arms 128 and pedals 130, along with at least onefront sprocket, or chainring 132. A rear gear change device 134, such asa derailleur, is disposed at the rear wheel 106 to move the chain 122through different sprockets of the sprocket assembly 124. Additionallyor alternatively, the bicycle 100 may include a front gear change deviceto move the chain 122 through gears on the chainring 132.

The example bicycle 100 includes a suspension system having one or moresuspension components. In the illustrated example, the bicycle 100includes a rear suspension component 136, referred to herein as thesuspension component 136. In this example, the suspension component 136is implemented as or includes a shock absorber, which includes atelescoping spring and damper. The suspension component 136 is coupledbetween two shock attachment portions (also referred to as mountingpoints) on the frame 102 of the bicycle 100. For instance, in thisexample, the frame 102 of the bicycle 100 includes a rear triangle 138(which can actually be two triangles, one on each side of the rear wheel106) and a rocker 140. A lower end of the rear triangle 138 is pivotallycoupled by a link to the frame 102 at or near an intersection of a seattube 142 and a down tube 144 of the frame 102. In the illustratedexample, the rocker 140 is pivotally coupled to the seat tube 142 of theframe 102. An upper end of the rear triangle(s) 138 is/are pivotallycoupled to one end of the rocker 140. One end of the suspensioncomponent 136 is coupled (e.g., via one or more threaded fasteners) to afirst shock attachment portion 146 on the down tube 144. The other endof the suspension component 136 is coupled to a second shock attachmentportion 148 on the other end of the rocker 140. The first and secondshock attachment portions 146, 148 may be openings or threaded holesused to insert one or more bolts for coupling the suspension component136 to the frame 102. If the rear wheel 106 is moved upward (such aswhen riding over a bump), the rocker 140 is rotated in the clockwisedirection (in FIG. 1 ), which compresses the suspension component 136.When the force is removed, the suspension component 136 expands(rebounds), thereby moving the rear wheel 106 back downward to maintaintraction with the surface 116. Thus, the suspension component 136 iscoupled between two sections of the frame 102 that are moveable relativeto each other.

In some examples, the front fork 108 is also implemented as a frontsuspension component. For example, a spring can be integrated into oneof the legs and a damper can be integrated into the other leg.Therefore, the front fork 108 and the suspension component 136 absorbshocks and vibrations while riding the bicycle 100 (e.g., when ridingover rough terrain). In other examples, the front fork 108 and/or thesuspension component 136 may be integrated into the bicycle 100 in otherconfigurations or arrangements. Further, in other examples, thesuspension system may employ only one suspension component (e.g., onlythe suspension component 136) or more than two suspension components(e.g., an additional suspension component on the seat post 112) inaddition to or as an alternative to the front fork 108 and thesuspension component 136.

While the example bicycle 100 depicted in FIG. 1 is a type of mountainbicycle, the example suspension components disclosed herein can beimplemented on other types of bicycles. For example, the disclosedsuspension components may be used on road bicycles, as well as bicycleswith mechanical (e.g., cable, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.) andnon-mechanical (e.g., wired, wireless) drive systems. The disclosedsuspension components may also be implemented on other types oftwo-wheeled, three-wheeled, and four-wheeled human powered vehicles.Further, the example suspension components can be used on other types ofvehicles, such as motorized vehicles (e.g., a motorcycle, a car, atruck, etc.).

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the example suspension component 136,which is used as the rear suspension component on the bicycle 100. Theexample suspension component 136 can also be used on other locations onthe bicycle 100. The example suspension component 136 can also bereferred to as a shock assembly. In the illustrated example, thesuspension component 136 includes an example shock absorber 200 and anexample shock end mount 202. The shock absorber 200 has a first end 204and a second end 206 opposite the first end 204. In some instances, thefirst end 204 is considered the top or upper end and the second end 206is considered the bottom or lower end 204. However, the shock absorber200 can be disposed in any orientation on a bicycle. For instance, inFIG. 1 , the shock absorber 200 is oriented with the first end 204facing downward and the second end 206 facing upward. In this example,the shock absorber 200 has eyelets on the first and second ends 204,206. For instance, the first end 204 has a first eyelet (the firsteyelet 500 shown in FIG. 5 ), and the second end 206 has a second eyelet208. In this example, the shock end mount 202 is coupled to the firstend 204 (e.g., to the first eyelet 500) of the shock absorber 200. Theshock end mount 202 forms an interface between the first end 204 of theshock absorber 200 and the first shock attachment portion 146 (FIG. 1 )on the frame 102 of the bicycle 100, as disclosed in further detailherein. Additionally or alternatively, another shock end mount can becoupled to the second end 206 of the shock absorber 200, examples ofwhich are disclosed in further detail herein in connection with FIGS.11-17 .

In the illustrated example, the shock absorber 200 includes a spring 210and a damper 212 (sometimes referred to as an integrated spring anddamper). The spring 210 operates (by compressing or expanding) to absorbvibrations or shocks, while the damper 212 operates to dampen (slow) themovement of the spring 210. In the illustrated example, the spring 210is implemented as an air can 214. However, in other examples, the spring210 can be implemented as another type of spring, such as a coil spring.The spring 210 and the damper 212 are configured in a telescopingarrangement and aligned along a longitudinal axis 216 of the shockabsorber 200. The longitudinal axis 216 also corresponds to the axis ofmovement of the shock absorber 200.

In the illustrated example, the shock absorber 200 includes a cap 218that forms a top of the air can 214. The cap 218 also forms the firstend 204 of the shock absorber 200. The first eyelet 500 (FIG. 5 ) iscoupled to the cap 218 (or formed integral with the cap 218) and extendsupward from the cap 218. The damper 212 includes a damper body 220. Thedistal end of the damper body 220 forms the second end 206 of the shockabsorber 200. The second eyelet 208 is coupled to the damper body 220(or formed integral with the damper body 220) and extends downward fromthe damper body 220. In some examples, the first end 204 is referred toas the spring end of the shock absorber 200, and the second end 206 isreferred to as the damper end of the shock absorber 200. The air can 214(which may be referred to as a first tube) and the damper body 220(which may be referred to as a second tube) are configured in atelescopic arrangement. The damper body 220 is moveable into and out ofthe air can 214 as shown by the double-sided arrow. For example, duringcompression, the first and second ends 204, 206 are pushed toward eachother, which moves the damper body 220 into the air can 214 (or movesthe air can 214 over the damper body 220). Conversely, during rebound,the first and second ends 204, 206 are pushed (or and/or pulled) apartat least in part by force from the spring 210, which moves the damperbody 220 out of the air can 214. In general, compression of the shockabsorber 200 is followed by rebound.

In the illustrated example, the shock absorber 200 includes an externalreservoir 222 (sometimes referred to as a shock can or shock piggy-backcan). The external reservoir 222 is disposed outside of the spring 210and the damper 212. The external reservoir 222 is used to house excessdamper fluid as the shock absorber 200 compresses and/or rebounds. Inparticular, during compression and rebound, damper fluid is routedbetween the damper body 220 and the external reservoir 222. This type ofshock absorber having an external reservoir has many advantages, such asfor keeping nitrogen (or other pneumatic fluid) away from the main bodyof the shock absorber 200, splitting the load of a shock between twocompression circuits, and enabling the use of larger internal floatingpistons. However, in other examples, the shock absorber 200 may notinclude an external reservoir. Instead, the reservoir may be defined inthe damper body 220 or another area in the tubed structured.

FIGS. 3 and 4 are side views of the suspension component 136 (rotatedabout 90° from each other). Before disclosing further details of theshock end mount 202, some of the internal components of the shockabsorber 200 are disclosed in connection with FIG. 3 . FIG. 3 shows someof the internal components of the shock absorber 200 in dashed lines. Inthe illustrated example, the damper 212 includes a shaft 300 that iscoupled to and extends from the cap 218. A fixed piston 302 is coupled(e.g., via threaded engagement) to a top end 304 of the damper body 220.In the illustrated example, the damper body 220 defines a first chamber306. The shaft 300 extends through the fixed piston 302 and into thefirst chamber 306. The shaft 300 slides into and out of the damper body220 through the fixed piston 302 as the shock absorber 200 compressesand rebounds. In some examples, one or more seals are disposed betweenthe shaft 300 and the fixed piston 302. The fixed piston 302 is slidablewithin the air can 214. During compression (when the air can 214 and thedamper body 220 move toward each other), the fixed piston 302 is pushedinto the air can 214, which compresses a gas (e.g., air) within the aircan 214. After the compressive force is removed, the compressed gas inthe air can 214 acts against the fixed piston 302 and pushes the fixedpiston 302 (and, thus, the damper body 220) outward from the air can214. In some examples, a seal 303 is disposed around the fixed piston302 to prevent the gas in the air can 214 from leaking past the fixedpiston 302. In other examples, the air can 214 can be filled with othertypes of fluids (e.g., oil). In other examples, the spring 210 can beimplemented by a physical spring, such as a coil spring. For example, acoil spring can be disposed in the shaft 300 between the top end 304 ofthe damper body 220 and the cap 218. In other examples, the spring 210can be implemented by other types of air spring and/or physical springconfigurations.

The first chamber 306 in the damper body 220 is filled with fluid. Thefluid may be, for example, oil, such as a mineral oil based dampingfluid. In other examples, other types of damping fluids may be used(e.g., silicon or glycol type fluids). A piston 308 is coupled to adistal end of the shaft 300 and disposed in the first chamber 306. Insome examples, a seal 309 is disposed around the piston 308 to preventfluid from leaking between the piston 308 and the damper body 220. Afluid flow path 310 is defined between the first chamber 306 in thedamper body 220 and a second chamber 312 defined in the externalreservoir 222. In this example, the fluid flow path 310 is formed atleast in part through the piston 308 and the shaft 300. The piston 308slides in the first chamber 306 of the damper body 220 as the shockabsorber 200 compresses and extends. For example, when the shockabsorber 200 compresses, the piston 308 is moved toward a bottom end ofthe damper body 220 and into the first chamber 306, which decreases thevolume in the first chamber 306 and, thus, increases the pressure of thefluid in the first chamber 306. As a result, the fluid in the firstchamber 306 is pushed up through the fluid flow path 310 and into thesecond chamber 312 in the external reservoir 222. Conversely, duringrebound, the piston 308 is moved in the opposite direction, i.e., awayfrom the bottom end of the damper body 220 and toward the top end 304 ofthe damper body 220. The rebound movement is driven at least in part bythe spring 210. For example, after the compressive force is removed, theair can 214 causes the damper body 220 to move away from the cap 218,which causes the piston 308 to slide (upward) in the first chamber 306,thereby expanding the shock absorber 200. This movement causes adecrease in pressure of the fluid in the first chamber 306, which drawsthe fluid from the second chamber 312 back through the fluid flow path310 and into the first chamber 306. This movement or flow of fluidbetween the first and second chambers 306, 312 causes the dampingeffect.

As disclosed above, the shock absorber 200 includes multiple seals(e.g., the seals 303, 309, etc.) and sliding surfaces. These seals andsurfaces have a static friction that must be overcome to compress orexpand the shock absorber 200. While relatively small, this staticfriction may cause a delay in the compression or rebound movements. Forexample, if a compressive force is applied to the shock absorber 200,the air can 214 and the damper body 220 may remain in the samerelationship (i.e., no movement) until the force builds enough toovercome the static friction. Once the static friction is overcome, thecomponents of the shock absorber 200 move (e.g., slide), which enablesthe air can 214 and the damper body 220 to move relative to each otherand, thus, enables the two ends to move relative to each other. Thisdelay may cause an undesirable stick slip feeling that can be felt bythe rider. Additionally, high frequency vibrations (e.g., above 5 Hz)having a low amplitude may be not absorbed by the shock absorber 200.Instead, these high frequency vibrations are transmitted through theframe 102 (FIG. 1 ) and are felt by the rider.

To address the above-noted drawbacks, the suspension component 136includes the shock end mount 202. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 , in thisexample, the shock end mount 202 is coupled to the first end 204 of theshock absorber 200. The shock end mount 202 includes or defines a firstframe attachment portion 315 that forms the location where the shock endmount 202 (and, thus, the suspension component 136) is to be coupled tothe corresponding first shock attachment portion 146 (FIG. 1 ) on theframe 102 of the bicycle 100. For example, in the illustrated example,the shock end mount 202 includes an example frame bracket 314. In thisexample, the frame bracket 314 includes a first threaded opening 316 anda second threaded opening 318 (FIG. 4 ). The first and second threadedopenings 316, 318 form or define the first frame attachment portion 315.The first and second threaded openings 316, 318 are configured toreceive threaded fasteners (e.g., bolts). For example, the frame bracket314 can be coupled to the frame 102 by inserting threaded fastenersthrough the frame 102 (e.g., at the first shock attachment portion 146on the down tube 144) and into the first and second threaded openings316, 318. While in this example the frame bracket 314 includes twothreaded openings, in other examples, the frame bracket 314 may onlyinclude one threaded opening and may be coupled to the frame 102 via onethreaded fastener. Therefore, in this example, the frame bracket 314includes the first frame attachment portion 315 to be coupled to theframe 102 (FIG. 1 ) of the bicycle 100 (FIG. 1 ). In other examples, thefirst frame attachment portion 315 can be formed by another type ofstructure on the frame bracket 314. For example, the first frameattachment portion 315 may be formed by pegs with grooves for lockringsor other bearing mounted options for pinning to the frame. In anotherexample, the frame bracket 314 could be permanently or fixedly coupled(e.g., welded) to the frame 102, with detachable mechanisms forattaching/installing the shock absorber 202. In the illustrated example,the second eyelet 208 forms a second frame attachment portion 319 forcoupling the shock absorber 200 to the second shock attachment portion148 (FIG. 1 ) on the frame 102 (FIG. 1 ). As the first and second shockattachment portions 146, 148 (FIG. 1 ) on the frame 102 (FIG. 1 ) movetoward or away from each other, the first and second frame attachmentportions 315, 319 move toward or away from each other to compress orextend the shock absorber 200 and/or the shock end mount 202.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the shock end mount 202 is aligned with thespring 210 and the damper 212 along the longitudinal axis 216. The shockend mount 202 enables relative movement between the shock absorber 200and the first attachment frame portion 315 and, thus, between the shockabsorber 200 and the first shock attachment portion 146 on the frame 102(FIG. 1 ). Therefore, the shock end mount 202 acts as a spring in serieswith the shock absorber 200. As disclosed in further detail herein, theshock end mount 202 includes one or more cushioning members, such aselastomeric members (e.g., rubber pads). The cushioning member(s) aredisposed between the first end 204 (e.g., the first eyelet) and theframe bracket 314. The cushioning member(s) enable(s) relative movementbetween the first end 204 of the shock absorber 200 and the framebracket 314 and, thus, between the shock absorber 200 and the frame 102.As such, the shock end mount 202 enables the two sections of the frame102 (e.g., the first and second shock attachment portions 146, 148) tomove relative to each other before the breakaway force for the shockabsorber 200 is reached, thereby enabling the suspension component 136to absorb the vibrations more quickly during compression. The shock endmount 202 also absorbs high frequency, low amplitude vibrations thatwould otherwise be transmitted through the frame 102 to the rider.Therefore, the shock end mount 202 is frequency sensitive. Inparticular, long and slow inputs are partially absorbed by the shock endmount 202 and transmitted to the shock absorber 200, whereas fast andshort inputs are absorbed just in the shock end mount 202. As a result,the shock end mount 202 reduces vibrations felt by the rider (e.g., atthe handlebars 114 and/or the seat 110).

Also, as disclosed in further detail herein, the cushioning member(s)is/are disposed outside of a region R1 (labeled in FIG. 4 ) between thefirst frame attachment portion 315 (corresponding to the first andsecond threaded openings 316, 318) and the second frame attachmentportion 319 (corresponding to the second eyelet 208). For example,referring to FIG. 4 , the cushioning member(s) is/are above the firstframe attachment portion 315. As such, the shock end mount 202 does notinterfere with or shorten the size (e.g., length) or stroke distance ofthe shock absorber 200. Therefore, the shock end mount 202 can be usedwith a traditional sized shock absorber that is sized to fit between thefirst and second shock attachment portions 146, 148 (FIG. 1 ).

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the example shock end mount 202. Asdisclosed above, the frame bracket 314 of the shock end mount 202includes the first and second threaded openings 316, 318, which form thefirst frame attachment portion 315. The first and second threadedopenings 316, 318 can receive first and second threaded fasteners 501,503 to couple the frame bracket 314 to the first shock attachmentportion 146 (FIG. 1 ) on the rocker 140 (FIG. 1 ) of the bicycle 100(FIG. 1 ). In the illustrated example, the frame bracket 314 also has aload translating member 502. In this example, the load translatingmember 502 is a wall of the frame bracket 314, referred to herein as thewall 502. The wall 502 has an opening 504.

As shown in FIG. 5 , the first end 204 of the shock absorber 200 has thefirst eyelet 500. The shock end mount 202 includes a post bracket 506.When the shock end mount 202 is assembled, the post bracket 506 iscoupled to the first end 204 of the shock absorber 200. In particular,in this example, the post bracket 506 is coupled to the first eyelet500. When the shock end mount 202 is assembled, the frame bracket 314 ismoveable relative to the post bracket 506, which enables relativemovement between the first frame attachment portion 315 and the shockabsorber 200.

In the illustrated example, the post bracket 506 includes a base 508, apost 510, first and second walls 512, 514, and a cap 516. The post 510is coupled to and extends upward from the base 508. The first and secondwalls 512, 514 are coupled to and extend downward from the base 508.When the shock end mount 202 is assembled, the post 510 extends throughthe opening 504 in the wall 502 of the frame bracket 314, and the cap516 is coupled to the distal end of the post 510 via a fastener 518(e.g., a bolt, a screw). In some examples, the shock end mount 202 hasan anti-rotation mechanism to prevent or limit rotation or twisting ofthe shock absorber 200 relative to the frame bracket 314 (and, thus,between the shock absorber 200 and the frame 102 (FIG. 1 )). Forexample, in this example, the post 510 and the opening 504 in the wall502 have a rectangular cross-section, which limits or prevents twistingor rotating between the frame bracket 314 and the post bracket 506. Inthe illustrated example, the shock end mount 202 includes a bushing 520to be disposed in the opening 504 of the wall 502. The bushing 520provides a smooth interface for the post 510 to slide through theopening 504. The first and second walls 512, 514 have openings thatalign with the first eyelet 500. In the illustrated example, the postbracket 506 is coupled to the first eyelet 500 via first and secondfasteners 522, 524. In this example, the first fastener 522 is a boltand the second fastener 524 is a barrel nut (e.g., an Allen head barrelnut). The first and second fasteners 522, 524 can be inserted throughthe first and second walls 512, 514 and into the first eyelet 500 andscrewed together. In some examples, when the post bracket 506 is coupledto the first eyelet 500, the post bracket 506 is not pivotable about thefirst eyelet 500. However, in other examples, the post bracket 506 ispivotable about the first eyelet 500. In some examples, the base 508,the post 510, and the first and second walls 512, 514 are constructed asa single unitary part or component (e.g., a monolithic structure). Inother examples, the base 508, the post 510, and/or the first and secondwalls 512, 514 can be constructed as separate parts that are coupledtogether.

In the illustrated example, the shock end mount 202 includes a firstcushioning member 526 and a second cushioning member 528. In thisexample, the first and second cushioning members 526, 528 areimplemented as elastomeric members, referred to herein as a firstelastomeric member 526 and a second elastomeric member 528. When theshock end mount 202 is assembled, the first and second elastomericmembers 526, 528 are disposed between the post bracket 506 and the framebracket 314. In particular, the first elastomeric member 526 is disposedbetween the base 508 and the wall 502, and the second elastomeric member528 is disposed between the cap 516 and the wall 502. The first andsecond cushioning members 526, 528 act as springs to enable relativemovement between frame bracket 314 and the post bracket 506. In theillustrated example, the first and second elastomeric members 526, 528are cuboid-shaped. However, in other examples, the first and/or secondelastomeric members 526, 528 can have a different shape (e.g.,disk-shaped). The first and second elastomeric members 526, 528 includerespective openings 530, 532. When the shock end mount 202 is assembly,the post 510 extends through the opening 530 of the first elastomericmember 526, through the opening 504 of the wall 502, and through theopening 532 of the second elastomeric member 528.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged side view of the shock end mount 202 on the shockabsorber 200. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the shock end mount202 taken along line B-B of FIG. 6 . As shown in FIG. 7 , the framebracket 314 defines a cavity 700. The first eyelet 500 is disposed inthe cavity 700. The post bracket 506 is coupled to the first eyelet 500and extends upward from the first eyelet 500 and through the wall 502.The first and second threaded openings 316, 318 extend through the framebracket 314 and into the cavity 700. As disclosed above, the first andsecond threaded openings 316, 318 can receive respective fasteners(e.g., bolts) to couple the frame bracket 314 to the frame 102 of thebicycle 100. However, neither of the fasteners extends entirely throughthe frame bracket 314. This enables the post bracket 506 and the firsteyelet 500 to move up and down in the cavity 700 relative to the framebracket 314. In some examples, the distance between the first frameattachment portion 315 to the top of the fastener 518 may be less than acertain height to ensure the shock end mount 202 fits on the frame 102(FIG. 1 ). For example, the height may be less than 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm,etc.

As shown in FIG. 6 , the first and second fasteners 522, 524 arethreadably coupled in the first eyelet 500 to couple the post bracket506 to the first eyelet 500. The post 510 extends upward (in theorientation in FIG. 7 ) through the first elastomeric member 526, thewall 502, and the second elastomeric member 528. The cap 516 is coupledto the post 510 via the fastener 518. The first and second elastomericmembers 526, 528 are aligned along the longitudinal axis 216 of theshock absorber 200. The frame bracket 314 is moveable up and downrelative to the post bracket 506 along the longitudinal axis 216, andvice versa. The bushing 520 is disposed in the opening 504 in the wall502. The post 510 is slidable through bushing 520, which forms a lowfriction surface between the post 510 and the wall 502. This reduceswear on the frame bracket 314 and the post bracket 506. The bushing 520can be constructed of any material. In some examples, the bushing 520 isconstructed of Teflon®. In other examples, the bushing 520 can beconstructed of another material, such as Delrin®.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 7 , the first elastomeric member 526is clamped (e.g., axially constrained) between the base 508 of the postbracket 506 and the wall 502 of the frame bracket 314. Further, thesecond elastomeric member 528 is clamped (e.g., axially constrained)between the cap 516 of the post bracket 506 and the wall 502 of theframe bracket 314. Therefore, the first elastomeric member 526 biasesthe post bracket 506 downward relative to the frame bracket 314, and thesecond elastomeric member 528 biases the post bracket 506 in theopposite direction relative to the frame bracket 314. In some examples,the first and second elastomeric members 526, 528 are preloaded (i.e.,in a slightly compressed state). The first and second elastomericmembers 526, 528 are disposed above the first frame attachment portion315 in FIG. 7 and, thus, are outside of the region R1 (FIG. 4 ).

The first and second elastomeric members 526, 528 can be constructed ofany elastomeric material. In some examples, the first and secondelastomeric members 526, 528 are constructed of nitrile rubber (e.g., 50Shore A nitrile rubber). In other examples, the first and secondelastomeric members 526, 528 can be constructed of other types of rubber(e.g., butyl rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber,etc.), silicone, polyurethane, or a viscoelastic material. In someexamples, the first and second elastomeric members 526, 528 have thesame hardness. For example, the first and second elastomeric members526, 528 may have a durometer of about 50 Shore A (e.g., ±5). In otherexamples, the first and second elastomeric members 526, 528 can have ahigher or lower durometer. In other examples, the first and secondelastomeric members 526, 528 can have a different hardness that eachother. For example, the first elastomeric member 526 may have a hardnessof a first durometer, and the second elastomeric member 528 may have ahardness of a second durometer that is higher than the first durometer.

The first and second elastomeric members 526, 528 compress and expand inresponse to compression and rebound forces to enable relative movementbetween the frame bracket 314 and the post bracket 506 and, thus,between the shock absorber 200 and the first frame attachment portion315. For example, when a compressive force is first applied to thesuspension component 136 (e.g., when riding over a bump), the framebracket 314 is forced downward (in FIG. 7 ) and/or the post bracket 506is forced upward (in FIG. 7 ). Before the breakaway force of the shockabsorber 200 is reached, the first elastomeric member 526 is compressedbetween the base 508 and the wall 502, which enables the frame bracket314 to move downward relative to the first end 204 of the shock absorber200 and, thus, enables the first frame attachment portion 315 to moverelative to the shock absorber 200. An example of this motion is shownin FIG. 8 . As shown in FIG. 8 , the frame bracket 314 has moveddownward relative to the post bracket 506 and, thus, toward the firstend 204 of the shock absorber 200. The first elastomeric member 526 hasbeen compressed. Further, because the frame bracket 314 is moved awayfrom the second elastomeric member 528, the second elastomeric member528 expands in the space between the cap 516 and the wall 502. In someexamples, when the frame bracket 314 is moved a certain distance, a gap801 is formed between the second elastomeric member 528 and the framebracket 314 (and/or a gap may be formed between the second elastomericmember 528 and the cap 516). However, in other examples, the secondelastomeric member 528 is sized such that when expanded, the secondelastomeric member 528 maintains contact with both the cap 516 and thewall 502 and, thus, no gap is formed. This can enable a smoothtransition when the frame bracket 314 is eventually moved in theopposite direction. In some examples, the second elastomeric member 528is pre-loaded (pre-compressed), such that the elastomeric member 528 hasenough available expansion to cover the travel between the post bracket506 and the frame bracket 314. In some examples, the second elastomericmember 528 is coupled (e.g., via an adhesive, via a fastener, etc.) tothe cap 516 and the wall 502. In such an example, the second elastomericmember 528 may be pulled into tension. Therefore, during a compressionmovement (i.e., when the first end 204 is moved toward the frame bracket314 or vice versa), the first elastomeric member 526 is in a compressedstate, and the second elastomeric member 528 is in an expanded state (ora tension state).

In some examples, the distance the frame bracket 314 can move relativeto the post bracket 506 is limited. For example, as shown in FIG. 8 ,the frame bracket 314 has a protrusion 800 extending radially inward. Inthe position shown in FIG. 8 , the protrusion 800 has engaged a flange802 on the base 508 of the post bracket 506, which prevents furthermovement downward. In other examples, other structures or interfaces maybe provided to limit the distance of the movement. After the compressiveforce is removed, the first elastomeric member 526 biases the base 508and the wall 502 away from each other, which moves the frame bracket 314upward relative to the post bracket 506 and, thus, upward relative tothe first end 204 of the shock absorber 200.

Similarly, when a rebound (expanding) force is applied to the suspensioncomponent 136 (e.g., from the spring 210 (FIG. 2 )), the first andsecond elastomeric members 526, 528 enable relative movement of theframe bracket 314 and the post bracket 506. An example of this motion isshown FIG. 9 . For example, the frame bracket 314 can be moved upwardrelative to the post bracket 506 (and vice versa) and, thus relative tothe first end 204 of the shock absorber 200. As shown in FIG. 9 , thesecond elastomeric member 528 is compressed between the cap 516 and thewall 502. Further, because the frame bracket 314 is moved away from thefirst elastomeric member 526, the first elastomeric member 526 expandsin the space between the base 508 and the wall 502. In some examples, agap 901 is formed between the first elastomeric member 526 and the framebracket 314 (and/or a gap may be formed between the first elastomericmember 526 and the base 508). However, in other examples, the firstelastomeric member 526 is sized such that when expanded, the firstelastomeric member 526 maintains contact with both the base 508 and thewall 502 and, thus, no gap is formed. This can enables a smoothtransition when the frame bracket 314 is eventually moved in theopposite direction. In some examples, the first elastomeric member 526is pre-loaded (pre-compressed), such that the elastomeric member 528 hasenough available expansion to cover the travel between the post bracket506 and the frame bracket 314. In some examples, the first elastomericmember 526 is coupled (e.g., via an adhesive, via a fastener, etc.) tothe base 508 and the wall 502. In such an example, the first elastomericmember 526 may be pulled into tension. In some examples, the firstand/or second elastomeric members 526, 528 can have variable springrates, such that the spring rate(s) change over the compression andtension movements. This may be used to eliminate a potential gap. Duringa rebound or expansion movement (i.e., when the first end 204 is movedaway from the frame bracket 314 or vice versa), the second elastomericmember 528 is in a compressed state, and the first elastomeric member526 is in an expanded state (or a tension state). Therefore, as shown inFIG. 8 , the first elastomeric member 526 is loaded in compression whenthe shock absorber 200 is compressed, and, as shown in FIG. 9 , thesecond elastomeric member 528 is loaded in compression when the shockabsorber 200 is loaded in tension (or in a rebound state). As such, thefirst elastomeric member 526 may be referred to as a compressiondirection member (because it is under compression when the shockabsorber 200 is compressed), and the second elastomeric member 528 maybe referred to as a rebound direction member (because it is undercompression when the shock absorber 200 is expanded).

In some examples, the distance the frame bracket 314 can move relativeto the post bracket 506 is limited. For example, as shown in FIG. 9 ,the frame bracket 314 has engaged the cap 516 of the post bracket 506,which prevents further movement upward. In other examples, otherstructures or interfaces may be provided to limit the distance of themovement. After the rebound force is removed, the second elastomericmember 528 biases the cap 516 and the wall 502 away from each other,which moves the frame bracket 314 downward relative to the post bracket506 and, thus, toward the first end 204 of the shock absorber 200. Inthis manner, the shock end mount 202 enables relative movement betweenthe first frame attachment portion 400 and the first end of the shockabsorber 200 before the breakaway forces of the shock absorber 200 arereached.

In some examples, the frame bracket 314 and the post bracket 506 aremovable about 2 mm relative to each other in either direction from theposition shown in FIG. 7 . This allows about 4 mm of travel between thefirst frame attachment portion 315 and the first end 204 of the shockabsorber 200. In some examples, the total distance is defined by thelimits shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 . In other examples, depending on themagnitude of the force, the hardness of the first and second elastomericmembers 526, 528, and/or the breakaway force of the shock absorber 200,the relative movement may be larger or smaller. Also, because the firstand second elastomeric members 526, 528 are disposed on opposite sidesof the wall 502 of the frame bracket 314, the net force to initiatemovement in either direction is zero. Therefore, the example suspensioncomponent 136 does not require a certain force to overcome some frictionor breakaway force to initiate movement. Instead, any net compressive orexpansive force can result in relative movement of the frame relative tothe shock absorber 200 and, thus, movement between one section of theframe 102 (e.g., the rear triangle 138) and another section of the frame102 (e.g., the down tube 144). This results in less vibrations or shockstransmitted through the frame 102 to the rider.

The first and second elastomeric members 526, 528 also absorb highfrequency, low amplitude vibrations that may otherwise not be absorbedby the shock absorber 200. For example, if riding over a washboardterrain, the first and second elastomeric members 526, 528 enable twoportions of the frame 102 to flutter relative to each other. As such,these high frequency, lower amplitude vibrations are not transmittedthrough the handlebars 114 (FIG. 1 ) or pedals to the rider. Further, byhaving the first and second elastomeric member 526, 528 on oppositesides of the wall 502, rather than just one on one side, thisarrangement reduces any gap between the wall 502 and the base 508 andthe cap 516 that could cause an impact upon release of force. Therefore,in some examples, having an elastomeric member on both sides of the wall502 results in a more stable and smoother movement. In some examples,instead of having two separate elastomeric members, one elastomericmember can be used that extends to both sides of the wall 502. Forexample, the elastomeric member may have slot that interacts with thewall 502, and a first portion of the elastomeric member is above thewall 502 and a second portion of the elastomeric member is below thewall 502. In other examples, only one elastomeric member may beimplemented on one side of the wall 502. For example, in some instances,only the first elastomeric member 526 may be included, and not thesecond elastomeric member 528. In such an example, the first elastomericmember 526 may operate between compression and tension during thecompression and expansion movements. Further, while in this example thecushioning members are implemented as the first and second elastomericmembers 526, 528, in other examples, the cushioning member(s) can beimplemented as springs (e.g., metallic coil springs, leaf springs, etc.)or other types of cushioning members that produce biased movementbetween two components. For example, a coil spring can be coupledbetween the base 508 and the wall 502. In such an example, the coilspring can provide force in either direction, in compression orextension.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the example shock end mount 202taken along line C-C of FIG. 6 . As shown in FIG. 10 , the firstelastomeric member 526 has a rectangular cross-section. In someexamples, the first elastomeric member 526 is configured to have thesame general shape as the cavity 700 of the frame bracket 314, whichprevents the first elastomeric member 526 and the frame bracket 314 fromrotating or twisting relative to each other. Further, as shown in FIG.10 , the opening 530 in the first elastomeric member 526 has the samegeneral cross-sectional shape as the post 510, which prevents the post510 and the first elastomeric member 526 from rotating or twistingrelative to each other. The second elastomeric member 528 can have thesame shape as the first elastomeric member 526. Further, the opening 504(FIG. 5 ) in the wall 502 (FIG. 5 ) also has a rectangular cross-sectionthat matches the post 510. This reduces or eliminates any potentialtwisting between the frame bracket 314 and the post bracket 506 (FIG. 5) and, thus, ensures the suspension component 136 (FIG. 2 ) remainsaligned between the first and second shock attachment portions 146, 148(FIG. 1 ) on the bicycle 100.

FIG. 11 illustrates another example suspension component 1100 that canbe implemented on the bicycle 100 (FIG. 1 ). The suspension component1100 may also be referred to as a shock assembly. The suspensioncomponent 1100 includes the shock absorber 200 and another example shockend mount 1102. In this example, the shock end mount 202 is coupled tothe second end 206 of the shock absorber 200. The shock end mount 1102is substantially the same as the shock end mount 202 disclosed above. Inparticular, the shock end mount 202 acts to absorb vibrations and enablemovement between the second end 206 of the shock absorber 200 and thesecond shock attachment portion 148 (FIG. 1 ) and, thus, enablesmovement between two sections of the frame 102 independent of the shockabsorber 200. It is understood that any of the example structure orfunctions disclosed in connection with the shock end mount 202 canlikewise apply to the shock end mount 1102 on the second end 206.Therefore, to avoid redundancy, many of the example structures and/orfunctions are not repeated herein.

FIGS. 12 and 13 are side views of the example suspension component 1100(rotated about 90° from each other). In this example, the first eyelet500 forms a first frame attachment portion 1200 for coupling the shockabsorber 200 to the frame 102 (FIG. 1 ) at the first shock attachmentportion 146 (FIG. 1 ). Further, in this example, the shock end mount1102 includes or defines a second frame attachment portion 1202 wherethe shock end mount 1102 (and, thus, the suspension component 1100) canbe coupled to the frame 102 of the bicycle 100. For example, the shockend mount 1102 includes a frame bracket 1204. The frame bracket 1204includes first and second threaded openings 1206, 1208. The first andsecond threaded openings 1206, 1208 are configured to receive threadedfasteners (e.g., bolts). The frame bracket 1204 can be coupled to theframe 102 by inserting threaded fasteners through the frame 102 (e.g.,at the second shock attachment portion 148 on the rocker 140) and intothe first and second threaded openings 1206, 1208. Therefore, the firstand second threaded openings 1204, 1206 form the second frame attachmentportion 1202.

As shown in FIG. 13 , the shock end mount 1102 is aligned along thelongitudinal axis 216 of the shock absorber 200. The shock end mount1102 enables relative movement between the shock absorber 200 and thesecond frame attachment portion 1202 and, thus, between the shockabsorber 200 and the second shock attachment portion 148 (FIG. 1 ) onthe frame 102 (FIG. 1 ). As disclosed in further detail herein, theshock end mount 1102 includes one or more cushioning members, such aselastomeric members (e.g., rubber pads). The cushioning member(s) is/aredisposed outside of a region R2 between the first frame attachmentportion 1200 (corresponding to the first eyelet 500) and the secondframe attachment portion 1202 (corresponding to the first and secondthreaded openings 1206, 1208). For example, the cushioning member(s)is/are below the second frame attachment portion 1204 in FIG. 13 . Assuch, the shock end mount 1102 does not interfere with or shorten theallowable size (e.g., length) or stroke distance of the shock absorber200.

FIG. 14 is an exploded view of the example shock end mount 1102. In theillustrated example, the frame bracket 1204 includes a wall 1400 with anopening 1402. The shock end mount 1102 includes a bushing 1404 that canbe disposed in the opening 1402. In the illustrated example, the shockend mount 1102 includes a post bracket 1406. When the shock end mount1102 is assembled, the post bracket 1406 is coupled to the second eyelet208. The post bracket 1406 is moveable relative to the frame bracket1204, which enables relative movement between the second frameattachment portion 1202 and the shock absorber 200.

The post bracket 1406 is substantially the same as the post bracket 506disclosed above. The post bracket 1406 includes a base 1408, a post 1410coupled to and extending from the base 1408, and a cap 1412 that can becoupled to a distal end of the post 1410 via a fastener 1414 (e.g., abolt). However, in this example, the post bracket 1406 is coupled to thesecond end 206 of the shock absorber 200 via first and second fasteners1416, 1418. In particular, in this example, the second end 206 of theshock absorber 200 has threaded openings 1420, 1422 instead of aneyelet. When the shock end mount 1102 is assembled, the first and secondfasteners 1416, 418 are inserted through the base 1408 and screwed intothe threaded openings 1420, 1422, thereby coupling the post bracket 1406to the second end 206 of the shock absorber 200. However, in otherexamples, the second end 206 of the shock absorber 200 can include aneyelet (e.g., such as the second eyelet 208 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 ). Insuch an example, the post bracket 1406 can be the same as the postbracket 506 disclosed above. In the illustrated example, the shock endmount 1102 also includes a first elastomeric member 1424 and a secondelastomeric member 1426.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged side view of the example shock end mount 1102 onthe shock absorber 200. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the shockend mount 1102 taken along line D-D of FIG. 15 . As shown in FIG. 16 ,the frame bracket 1204 defines a cavity 1600. The post bracket 1406 iscoupled to the second end 206 of the shock absorber 200 and extendsdownward and through the wall 1400 of the frame bracket 1204. The shockend mount 1102 operates the same as the shock end mount 202 disclosedabove. Thus, to avoid redundancy, a describing of the relative movementsis not repeated.

As disclosed above, the first and second threaded openings 1206, 1208form the second frame attachment portion 1202. As shown in FIG. 14 , thefirst and second elastomeric members 1424, 1426 are below the secondframe attachment portion 1202 and, thus, are disposed outside of theregion R2 (FIG. 13 ) between the first frame attachment portion 1200(FIGS. 12 and 13 ) and the second frame attachment portion 1202.Therefore, the first and second elastomeric members 1424, 1426 do notinterfere with or shorten the allowable space for the shock absorber200.

The examples shown in FIGS. 2-16 include a shock end mount coupled toone end of the shock absorber 200. However, in other examples, a shockend mount can be used on both ends of the shock absorber 200. Forexample, FIG. 17 shows an example suspension component 1700 that can beimplemented on the bicycle 100 (FIG. 1 ). The suspension component 1700may also be referred to as a shock assembly. In the illustrated example,the suspension component 1700 includes the shock absorber 200 with theshock end mount 202 (a first shock end mount) coupled to the first end204 and the shock end mount 1102 (a second shock end mount) coupled tothe second end 206. In the illustrated example, the first and secondshock end mounts 202, 1102 are aligned along the longitudinal axis 216of the shock absorber. The first and second shock end mounts 202, 1102enable relative movement of the first and second shock attachmentportions 146, 148 (FIG. 1 ) before the break away force for the shockabsorber 200 is reached.

The first shock end mount 202 includes or defines the first frameattachment portion 315 (e.g., defined by the first and second threadedopenings 316, 318 (FIGS. 3-5 ), and the second shock end mount 1102includes or defines the second frame attachment portion 1202 (e.g.,defined by the first and second threaded openings 1206, 1208 (FIGS.12-14 ). The first shock end mount 202 includes the first and secondelastomeric members 526, 528 (FIG. 5 ), and the second shock end mount1102 includes the first and second elastomeric members 1424, 1426 (FIG.14 ). The elastomeric members 526, 528, 1424, 1426 are disposed outsideof a region R3 between the first frame attachment portion 315 and thesecond frame attachment portion 1202.

In the example of FIGS. 2-10 , the post bracket 506 is a separatecomponent that is coupled to the first end 204 of the shock absorber200. However, in other examples, at least a portion of the post bracket506 can be integral with the first end 204 of the shock absorber 200.For example, FIG. 18 shows an exploded view of an example shock endmount 1800 that is substantially the same as the shock end mount 202 ofFIG. 2 . However, in this example, the base 508 and the post 510 areintegral with the first end 204 of the shock absorber 200. For example,the base 508 and the post 510 can be formed as a single monolithicstructure with the cap 218

FIGS. 19A-19D are schematics of an example shock absorber 1900 and anexample shock end mount 1902 in different states. The example shockabsorber 1900 and the example shock end mount 1902 may correspond to theshock absorber 200 and the shock end mount 202 disclosed in connectionwith FIGS. 2-10 and may be implemented on the bicycle 100 (FIG. 1 ).Referring to FIG. 19A, the shock absorber 1900 has a first end 1904 anda second end 1906 opposite the first end 1904. The shock end mount 1902includes a frame bracket 1908 (which may correspond to the frame bracket314 (FIG. 3 )) and a spring 1910 (which may correspond to the firstand/or second elastomeric members 526, 528 (FIG. 5 )) between the firstend 1904 of the shock absorber 1900 and the frame bracket 1908. Theframe bracket 1908 includes a first frame attachment portion 1912 thatcan be coupled to a first structure (e.g., a shock attachment portion onthe bicycle 100). The first frame attachment portion 1912 may correspondto the first and second threaded openings 316, 318 (FIGS. 3-5 ). Thesecond end 1906 of the shock absorber 200 includes a second frameattachment portion 1914 that can be coupled to a second structure (e.g.,a shock attachment portion on the bicycle 100). The second frameattachment portion 1914 may correspond to the second eyelet 208 (FIG. 2). As shown in FIG. 19A, the spring 1910 is disposed outside of a regionR4 between the first frame attachment portion 1912 and the second frameattachment portion 1914. Said another way, the distance between thefirst and second frame attachment portions 1912, 1914 is less than thedistance between the spring 1910 and the second frame attachment portion1914. Therefore, the shock end mount 1902 does not interfere with orobstruct the potential size of the body of the shock absorber 1900and/or the stroke length of the shock absorber 1900.

In some examples, an anti-rotation mechanism 1916 is provided to preventrotation or twisting between the shock absorber 1900 and the framebracket 1908. The anti-rotation mechanism 1916 may correspond to therectangular cross-sectional shape of the post 510 (FIG. 5 ) and theshape of the opening 504 (FIG. 5 ) in the wall 502 (FIG. 5 ) and/or thecorresponding openings 530, 532 (FIG. 5 ) in the first and secondelastomeric members 526, 528 (FIG. 5 ). In other examples, theanti-rotation mechanism 1916 can be implemented as another structure,such as a keyed slot and protrusion. Therefore, in this example, theanti-rotation mechanism 1916 forms means for preventing rotation betweenthe shock absorber 1900 and the frame bracket 1908.

FIG. 19A shows the shock absorber 1900 and the shock end mount 1902 in aneutral state, such as when the bicycle 100 (FIG. 1 ) is riding on aflat surface. FIG. 19B shows the shock absorber 1900 and the shock endmount 1902 during an initial compression. This may occur when one orboth of the structures at the first and second frame attachment portions1912, 1914 are moved toward each other, such as when riding over a bump.As shown, the shock absorber 1900 has not yet compressed (compared tothe neutral state in FIG. 19A), but the frame bracket 1908 has moveddownward and the spring 1810 has compressed (shortened). The spring 1910compresses, which enables the first frame attachment portion 1912 tomove toward the first end 1904 of the shock absorber 1900. As such, thestructures at the first and second frame attachment portions 1912, 1914have moved closer without the shock absorber 1900 compressing.

FIG. 19C shows the shock absorber 1900 and the shock end mount 1902after further compression. As shown, the shock absorber 1900 hascompressed, which further shortens the distance between the structuresat the first and second frame attachment portions 1912, 1914. In someexamples, the height of the spring 1910 has not changed between thestates in FIGS. 19B and 19C.

FIG. 19D shows the shock absorber 1900 and the shock end mount 1902during an expansion or extension. This may occur when one or both of thestructures at the first and second frame attachment portions 1912, 1914are moved away from each other. For example, this may occur from theshock absorber 1900 rebounding or from an inertial effect of thesuspension vehicle leaving the ground. As shown, the shock absorber 1900has not expanded (compared to the neutral state in FIG. 19A), but theframe bracket 1908 has moved upward and the spring 1910 has expanded. Assuch, the structures as the first and second frame attachment portions1912, 1914 have moved away from each other without the shock absorber1900 expanding.

FIGS. 20A-20D are schematics of the example shock absorber 1900 andanother example shock end mount 2000 in different states. In thisexample, the example shock end mount 2000 is coupled to the second end1906 of the shock absorber 1900. This arrangement may correspond to theshock absorber 200 and the shock end mount 1102 shown in FIGS. 11-16 .The first end 1904 includes a first attachment frame portion 2002 (e.g.,the first eyelet 500 (FIG. 5 )) to be coupled to a first structure, andthe shock end mount 2000 includes a second frame attachment portion 2004to be coupled to a second structure. The shock end mount 2000 includes aframe bracket 2006 and a spring 2008. The spring 2006 is outside ofregion R5 between the first frame attachment portion 2002 and the secondframe attachment portion 2004. Therefore, the shock end mount 1902 doesnot interfere with or obstruct the potential size and/or stroke lengthof the shock absorber 1900. In some examples, an anti-rotation mechanism2010 is provided to prevent rotation or twisting between the shockabsorber 1900 and the frame bracket 2006. The anti-rotation mechanism2010 may correspond to the rectangular cross-sectional shape of the post1410 (FIG. 14 ) and the shape of the opening 1402 (FIG. 14 ) in the wall1400 (FIG. 14 ) and/or the corresponding openings in the first andsecond elastomeric members 1424, 1426 (FIG. 14 ). In other examples, theanti-rotation mechanism 2010 can be implemented as another structure,such as a keyed slot and protrusion. Therefore, in this example, theanti-rotation mechanism 2010 forms means for preventing rotation betweenthe shock absorber 1900 and the frame bracket 2006.

FIGS. 20A-20D show the shock absorber 1900 and the shock end mount 2000in the same states as FIGS. 19A-19D. The example shock end mount 2000enables relative movement between the second end 1906 of the shockabsorber 1900 and the first frame attachment portion 2004, which issimilar to the movement described in connection with FIGS. 19A-19D.Thus, to avoid redundancy, a description of the states is not repeated.

FIGS. 21A-21D are schematics of the example shock absorber 1900 with theshock end mount 1902 on the first end 1904 and the shock end mount 2000on the second end 1906 in different states. As shown in FIG. 21A, thesprings 1910, 2006 are disposed outside of a region R6 between the firstframe attachment portion 1912 and the second frame attachment portion2004. Therefore, the shock end mounts 1902, 2000 do not interfere withor obstruct the potential size and/or stroke length of the shockabsorber 1900. FIGS. 21A-21D show the shock absorber 1900 and the shockend mounts 1902, 2000 in the same states as FIGS. 19A-19D and FIGS.20A-20D. The example shock end mounts 1902, 2000 enable relativemovement between the structures at the first and second frame attachmentportions 1912, 2004 without compression or expansion of the shockabsorber 1900. Thus, to avoid redundancy, a description of the states isnot repeated.

While the example shock end mounts disclosed herein are described inconnection with a rear shock absorber, the example shock end mounts canbe similarly implemented in connection with shock absorbers in otherlocations and/or other types of suspension components on a vehicle. Forexample, any of the example shock end mounts can be implemented in thefront fork 108. As another example, any of the example shock end mountscan be implemented in connection with a suspension component used inconnection with another component on the bicycle 100, such as the seatpost 112.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that example shock end mountshave been disclosed that improve shock absorption in suspensioncomponents. The example shock end mounts disclosed herein enablerelative movement between two frame attachment portions (and, thus, twosections of a frame or other structure) of a bicycle before thebreakaway force of the shock absorber is reached. This providesadditional compression force cushioning and extension force cushioning.The example shock end mounts disclosed herein also absorb high frequencyvibrations and, thus, reduce vibrations that are felt by the rider. Thiscreates a more comfortable ride for the rider and improves riderconfidence. Further, the example shock end mounts do not interferencewith the size of the shock absorber and/or it's stroke length. As such,the shock end mount can be used with an existing shock absorber.

Example systems, apparatus, and articles of manufacture for bicycles(and/or other vehicles) are disclosed herein. Examples and examplecombinations disclosed herein include the following:

Example 1 a suspension component for a bicycle. The suspension componentcomprises a shock absorber including a spring and a damper configured ina telescoping arrangement. The shock absorber has a first end and asecond end opposite the first end. The second end has an eyelet. Thesuspension component also includes a shock end mount coupled to thefirst end of the shock absorber. The shock end mount includes a framebracket. The frame bracket includes a first frame attachment portion tobe coupled to a frame of the bicycle. The eyelet on the second end ofthe shock absorber defines a second frame attachment portion to becoupled to the frame of the bicycle. The shock end mount includes anelastomeric member to enable relative movement between the shockabsorber and the first frame attachment portion. The elastomeric memberis disposed outside of a region between the first frame attachmentportion and the second frame attachment portion.

Example 2 includes the suspension component of Example 1, wherein theshock end mount includes a post bracket coupled to the first end of theshock absorber. The frame bracket is moveable relative to the postbracket.

Example 3 includes the suspension component of Example 2, wherein theeyelet is a second eyelet. The first end of the shock absorber has afirst eyelet. The post bracket is coupled to the first eyelet.

Example 4 includes the suspension component of Example 3, wherein thepost bracket is coupled to the first eyelet via first and secondfasteners inserted into the first eyelet.

Example 5 includes the suspension component of Example 2, wherein atleast a portion of the post bracket is integral to the first end of theshock absorber.

Example 6 includes the suspension component of any of Examples 2-5,wherein the elastomeric member is disposed between the post bracket andthe frame bracket.

Example 7 includes the suspension component of Example 6, wherein thepost bracket includes a base and a post extending the base. The postextends through the elastomeric member. The frame bracket includes awall. The elastomeric member is disposed between the base of the postbracket and the wall of the frame bracket.

Example 8 includes the suspension component of Example 7, wherein theelastomeric member is a first elastomeric member. The shock end mountincludes a second elastomeric member. The second elastomeric member isdisposed outside of a region between the first frame attachment portionand the second frame attachment portion.

Example 9 includes the suspension component of Example 8, wherein thefirst elastomeric member and the second elastomeric member are disposedon opposite sides of the wall of the frame bracket.

Example 10 includes the suspension component of Example 9, wherein thepost bracket includes a cap coupled to a distal end of the post. Thesecond elastomeric member is disposed between the cap and the wall.

Example 11 includes the suspension component of Example 10, wherein thepost extends through the first elastomeric member, the wall, and thesecond elastomeric member.

Example 12 includes the suspension component of any of Examples 1-11,wherein the shock end mount includes a post bracket coupled to the firstend of the shock absorber. The post bracket has a post extending throughan opening in a wall of the frame bracket. The post and the opening havea rectangular cross-section to limit rotation between the post bracketand the frame bracket.

Example 13 is a suspension component for a bicycle. The suspensioncomponent comprises a shock absorber including a spring and a damperconfigured in a telescoping arrangement. The shock absorber has a firstend and a second end opposite the first end. The suspension componentincludes a first shock end mount coupled to the first end of the shockabsorber. The first shock end mount includes a first frame attachmentportion to be coupled to a frame of the bicycle. The first shock endmount includes a first cushioning member to enable relative movementbetween the first end of the shock absorber and the first frameattachment portion. The suspension component also includes a secondshock end mount coupled to the second end of the shock absorber. Thesecond shock end mount includes a second frame attachment portion to becoupled to the frame for the bicycle. The second shock end mountincludes a second cushioning member to enable relative movement betweenthe second end of the shock absorber and the second frame attachmentportion. The first cushioning member and the second cushioning memberare disposed outside of a region between the first frame attachmentportion and the second frame attachment portion.

Example 14 includes the suspension component of Example 13, wherein thefirst end has a first eyelet. The first shock end mount is coupled tothe first eyelet.

Example 15 includes the suspension component of Examples 13 or 14,wherein the first and second shock end mounts are aligned along alongitudinal axis of the shock absorber.

Example 16 includes the suspension component of any of Examples 13-15,wherein the first and second cushioning members are constructed ofnitrile rubber

Example 17 includes the suspension component of any of Examples 13-16,wherein, the first end mount includes a first frame bracket, the firstframe bracket including the first frame attachment portion, the firstend mount includes means for preventing rotation between the shockabsorber and the first frame bracket, the second end mount includes asecond frame bracket, the second frame bracket including the secondframe attachment portion, and the second end mount includes means forpreventing rotation between the shock absorber and the second framebracket.

Example 18 includes a shock end mount to couple a shock absorber to aframe of a bicycle. The shock end mount comprises a frame bracketincluding a threaded opening to receive a threaded fastener to couplethe frame bracket to the frame of the bicycle. The frame bracket has awall with an opening. The shock end mount includes a post bracket to becoupled to the shock absorber. The post bracket includes a base, a postextending from the base, and a cap coupled to a distal end of the cap.The post extends through the wall of the frame bracket. The post and theopening in the wall having a rectangular cross-section to limit rotationbetween the frame bracket and the post bracket. The shock end mount alsoincludes a first elastomeric member disposed between the base and thewall, and a second elastomeric member disposed between the cap and thewall. The first and second elastomeric members are to enable relativemovement between the frame bracket and the shock absorber.

Example 19 includes the shock end mount of Example 18, wherein the framebracket defines a cavity. The first elastomeric member is disposed inthe cavity.

Example 20 includes the shock end mount of Examples 18 or 19, furtherincluding a bushing in the opening. The post of the post bracketextending through the bushing.

The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended toprovide a general understanding of the structure of the variousembodiments. The illustrations are not intended to serve as a completedescription of all of the elements and features of apparatus and systemsthat utilize the structures or methods described herein. Many otherembodiments may be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewingthe disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from thedisclosure, such that structural and logical substitutions and changesmay be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure.Additionally, the illustrations are merely representational and may notbe drawn to scale. Certain proportions within the illustrations may beexaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized. Accordingly, thedisclosure and the figures are to be regarded as illustrative ratherthan restrictive.

While this specification contains many specifics, these should not beconstrued as limitations on the scope of the invention or of what may beclaimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particularembodiments of the invention. Certain features that are described inthis specification in the context of separate embodiments can also beimplemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, variousfeatures that are described in the context of a single embodiment canalso be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in anysuitable sub-combination. Moreover, although features may be describedabove as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed assuch, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some casesbe excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may bedirected to a sub-combination or variation of a sub-combination.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and describedherein, it should be appreciated that any subsequent arrangementdesigned to achieve the same or similar purpose may be substituted forthe specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover anyand all subsequent adaptations or variations of various embodiments.Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments notspecifically described herein, are apparent to those of skill in the artupon reviewing the description.

The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b) and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be usedto interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition,in the foregoing Detailed Description, various features may be groupedtogether or described in a single embodiment for the purpose ofstreamlining the disclosure. This disclosure is not to be interpreted asreflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require morefeatures than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as thefollowing claims reflect, inventive subject matter may be directed toless than all of the features of any of the disclosed embodiments. Thus,the following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description,with each claim standing on its own as defining separately claimedsubject matter.

It is intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded asillustrative rather than limiting and that it is understood that thefollowing claims including all equivalents are intended to define thescope of the invention. The claims should not be read as limited to thedescribed order or elements unless stated to that effect. Therefore, allembodiments that come within the scope and spirit of the followingclaims and equivalents thereto are claimed as the invention.

1. A suspension component for a bicycle, the suspension componentcomprising: a shock absorber including a spring and a damper configuredin a telescoping arrangement, the shock absorber having a first end anda second end opposite the first end, the second end having an eyelet;and a shock end mount coupled to the first end of the shock absorber,the shock end mount including a frame bracket, the frame bracketincluding a first frame attachment portion to be coupled to a frame ofthe bicycle, the eyelet on the second end of the shock absorber defininga second frame attachment portion to be coupled to the frame of thebicycle, the shock end mount including an elastomeric member to enablerelative movement between the shock absorber and the first frameattachment portion, the elastomeric member disposed outside of a regionbetween the first frame attachment portion and the second frameattachment portion.
 2. The suspension component of claim 1, wherein theshock end mount includes a post bracket coupled to the first end of theshock absorber, the frame bracket moveable relative to the post bracket.3. The suspension component of claim 2, wherein the eyelet is a secondeyelet, the first end of the shock absorber having a first eyelet, thepost bracket coupled to the first eyelet.
 4. The suspension component ofclaim 3, wherein the post bracket is coupled to the first eyelet viafirst and second fasteners inserted into the first eyelet.
 5. Thesuspension component of claim 2, wherein at least a portion of the postbracket is integral to the first end of the shock absorber.
 6. Thesuspension component of claim 2, wherein the elastomeric member isdisposed between the post bracket and the frame bracket.
 7. Thesuspension component of claim 6, wherein the post bracket includes abase and a post extending the base, the post extending through theelastomeric member, the frame bracket including a wall, the elastomericmember disposed between the base of the post bracket and the wall of theframe bracket.
 8. The suspension component of claim 7, wherein theelastomeric member is a first elastomeric member, the shock end mountincluding a second elastomeric member, the second elastomeric memberdisposed outside of a region between the first frame attachment portionand the second frame attachment portion.
 9. The suspension component ofclaim 8, wherein the first elastomeric member and the second elastomericmember are disposed on opposite sides of the wall of the frame bracket.10. The suspension component of claim 9, wherein the post bracketincludes a cap coupled to a distal end of the post, the secondelastomeric member disposed between the cap and the wall.
 11. Thesuspension component of claim 10, wherein the post extends through thefirst elastomeric member, the wall, and the second elastomeric member.12. The suspension component of claim 1, wherein the shock end mountincludes a post bracket coupled to the first end of the shock absorber,the post bracket having a post extending through an opening in a wall ofthe frame bracket, the post and the opening having a rectangularcross-section to limit rotation between the post bracket and the framebracket.
 13. A suspension component for a bicycle, the suspensioncomponent comprising: a shock absorber including a spring and a damperconfigured in a telescoping arrangement, the shock absorber having afirst end and a second end opposite the first end; a first shock endmount coupled to the first end of the shock absorber, the first shockend mount including a first frame attachment portion to be coupled to aframe of the bicycle, the first shock end mount including a firstcushioning member to enable relative movement between the first end ofthe shock absorber and the first frame attachment portion; and a secondshock end mount coupled to the second end of the shock absorber, thesecond shock end mount including a second frame attachment portion to becoupled to the frame for the bicycle, the second shock end mountincluding a second cushioning member to enable relative movement betweenthe second end of the shock absorber and the second frame attachmentportion, wherein the first cushioning member and the second cushioningmember are disposed outside of a region between the first frameattachment portion and the second frame attachment portion.
 14. Thesuspension component of claim 13, wherein the first end has a firsteyelet, the first shock end mount coupled to the first eyelet.
 15. Thesuspension component of claim 13, wherein the first and second shock endmounts are aligned along a longitudinal axis of the shock absorber. 16.The suspension component of claim 13, wherein the first and secondcushioning members are constructed of nitrile rubber.
 17. The suspensioncomponent of claim 13, wherein, the first end mount includes a firstframe bracket, the first frame bracket including the first frameattachment portion, the first end mount includes means for preventingrotation between the shock absorber and the first frame bracket, thesecond end mount includes a second frame bracket, the second framebracket including the second frame attachment portion, and the secondend mount includes means for preventing rotation between the shockabsorber and the second frame bracket.
 18. A shock end mount to couple ashock absorber to a frame of a bicycle, the shock end mount comprising:a frame bracket including a threaded opening to receive a threadedfastener to couple the frame bracket to the frame of the bicycle, theframe bracket having a wall with an opening; a post bracket to becoupled to the shock absorber, the post bracket including a base, a postextending from the base, and a cap coupled to a distal end of the cap,the post extending through the wall of the frame bracket, the post andthe opening in the wall having a rectangular cross-section to limitrotation between the frame bracket and the post bracket; a firstelastomeric member disposed between the base and the wall; and a secondelastomeric member disposed between the cap and the wall, the first andsecond elastomeric members to enable relative movement between the framebracket and the shock absorber.
 19. The shock end mount of claim 18,wherein the frame bracket defines a cavity, the first elastomeric memberdisposed in the cavity.
 20. The shock end mount of claim 18, furtherincluding a bushing in the opening, the post of the post bracketextending through the bushing.